Roads Still Dangerous as State Recovers from Historic Storm

MANY ROADS STILL DANGEROUS AS STATE RECOVERS FROM HISTORIC SNOWSTORM 

MEMA TO ASSIST IN DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS AND COORDINATE RECOVERY EFFORTS

REISTERSTOWN, MD (January 24, 2016) – Even though the snow has ended across Maryland, many roads remain snow covered and dangerous. Maryland residents should continue to avoid all non-essential travel at least through tonight so State and local snow removal crews can try to clear secondary roads, rural roads and neighborhood streets.

“The worst of Winter Storm Jonas is now behind us, but getting back to business-as-usual after a storm of this magnitude is going to take a considerable amount of time and patience,” said Governor Hogan. “Our State will continue to coordinate all available resources in the coming days as we move from a response mode to recovery mode. I urge Marylanders to continue to stay indoors and off the roads, allowing our emergency workers to do their jobs.”

MEMA continues to coordinate the use of State resources in support of local emergency managers and first responders across Maryland. MEMA will also focus on recovering from this storm. The Agency will assist in damage assessments and coordinate the overall recovery effort.

“This historic storm brought an unprecedented amount of snow to Maryland,” said MEMA Executive Director Russ Strickland. “MEMA will be taking every action possible to help facilitate community recovery. This includes seeking assistance from the federal government.”

Many people may be starting their own recovery efforts at home. For those shoveling snow today or tomorrow, make sure to do some stretching to warm up, take frequent breaks and, stay hydrated. Even though it is cold, it is easy to become dehydrated in dry air, especially when dressed to keep warm.

Finally, continue to check on the welfare of relatives, neighbors and friends who are vulnerable. It still is very dangerous for them to get around, and they may have trouble stocking up on food, water and other necessities.

MEMA will be regularly updating their website with winter preparedness information, traffic, weather, and power outage alerts. Residents can find all of this information at mema.maryland.gov. You can also follow MEMA on Twitter @MDMEMA or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDMEMA.